Endangered deer spotted in Cambodia after decade of absence

An endangered species of deer, which has not been seen for more than a decade, has been captured on camera in eastern Cambodia, the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) said Monday.

Four hog deer were recorded on camera traps set up by the environmental organization in Kratie province, according to a statement.

The hog deer features on the International Union for the Conservation of Nature's "Red List" and has been believed to be extinct in Cambodia since 2006.

While the sightings give conservationists hope for the recovery of the rare species, WWF's Cambodia country director Seng Teak said he was still wary of the danger posed by hunting.

"These sightings are encouraging and inspiring. However, hunting pressure remains a challenge and we must eliminate it via close collaboration with communities, increasing boots on the ground, and implementing effective law enforcement," he said.

According to WWF, hunting and snaring for bush meat consumption, habitat loss, charcoal production and land clearance for agriculture are the main threats to the hog deer's existence.